Walking, climbing and via ferrata

The Dolomites in northern Italy are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful mountain groups in the world and the seventy-odd via ferrata climbing routes mostly put up during the First World War conflict are an added attraction to scramblers and climbers alike.

The above image shows the understandably famous triple spires of the Tre Cime di Laveredo in the late afternoon. Having completed our via ferrata traverse over Monte Paterno, we looked across to our descent route which passed the small tarn beneath the lengthening shadows, to get round to the car park on the far side of three towers – pure magic!

In 2019, a dozen YRC scramblers and climbers attended a two week meet based in a large chalet in Arabba to sample the Dolomites’ many delights. One or two had never been on a via ferrata before, but the old hands soon showed them the ropes. By way of an example, this excellent via ferrata near the scenic Passo Falzarego was constructed between 2007-8 by the Bolzano brigade of the Italian Alpini military for training purposes. Enjoyable climbing and great views and historical interest made for a great day out.

You can read more about these superlative mountains in the Meet Report, but beware, once you have been out to the ‘Dollies’ you will have to return.